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Holidays to Malta

It may be smaller than the Isle of Wight, but Malta manages to squeeze in a whole host of attractions. Aside from the clear Mediterranean Sea (it’s a favoured spot for divers) and the wonderful climate, the island has a rich history spanning some 7,000 years. This means you’ll find everything from temples older than the pyramids, to medieval walled cities and fortifications that tell the story of Malta’s role during World War II. Best of all, it feels reassuringly familiar – almost everyone speaks English, they drive on the left they even sell beer in pints!

Stay and Relax

Stay and Relax

Situated by a roadside promenade in a popular area and close to lively St Julian's, the Diplomat hotel provides a good base from which to enjoy a pleasant stroll, explore the local shops and restaurants, or visit the historic city of Valletta.

Cruise World

Language

Malta has dual official languages, Maltese and English, giving it a real home-from-home feel.

The Maltese speak a unique language, Malti, written in Latin characters – it incorporates many words derived from English, Italian and French. Italian is also widely spoken in Malta.

Tipping

While tipping is not obligatory, it is best to follow what the locals do, which is usually to leave a 10% gratuity.

Population and size

Malta’s population currently stands at 422,128. The Maltese archipelago includes the islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino, as well as the uninhabited, and little known islands of Comminotto and Filfla.

Malta is situated in the Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and Tunisia.

At a tiny 316 square kilometers (smaller than the Isle of Wight), it is one of the world’s tiniest countries, closely followed by the Maldives. So at approximately 17 miles long and eight miles wide, if you’re a good hiker, you could walk the length in less than a day!

Currency

Euro -

The euro replaced the lira as the official currency of Malta in 2008.

Culture

Malta is a deeply religious country, with more than 98% of the population being Roman Catholic. Indeed, the island has 365 churches – one for every day of the year!

Honey is one of Malta's most treasured products, so much so that the name Malta means ‘honey’ translated from its earliest Roman title – you won’t be able to resist a taste along, perhaps, with sampling Maltese olive oil and a slosh of local wine.

Despite its size, Malta attracts international film productions from around the world. Since 1925 when the first film was shot in Malta (Sons of the Sea), Malta has been the setting for more than 100 feature films including The Da Vinci Code, Troy and Gladiator.

Phrases

English and Maltese are both official languages and nearly everybody in Malta speaks English. Even so, here are some helpful words if you fancy trying out the local lingo…

Hello - Hello (that’s easy enough!)

Goodbye - Saħħa (SAH-ha)

Please - Jekk jogħġbok (yek YOH-jbok)

Thank you - Grazzi (GRUTS-ee)

Yes - Iva (Eve-a)

No - Le (Le)

Timezone

Malta is one hour ahead of GMT, so no need to worry about jet lag.

Electricity

Most British appliances can be used without an adaptor, as sockets tend to be the standard rectangular pin you’ll find at home. That’s one less thing to pack!

Climate

In the summer months, you can bask in 12 hours of glorious sunshine and a pleasant 5 or 6 hours in the winter.

During the winter, temperatures will stay in the region of 16°C (60 °F) – considerably warmer than our chilly British weather.

In summer, temperatures will peak at around 30°C (86°F).

Health

As health information can change at any time, we’d advise you to consult your GP at least 12 weeks before departure.

Country-specific information and advice on possible health risks is also published by the National Travel Health Network and Centre – see www.nathnac.org, and The British Foreign and Commonwealth Travel Advice Unit provides important health and safety information for British nationals travelling abroad at www.fco.gov.uk/travel.

Passports and visas

For stays of up to three months your passport should be valid for the planned duration of your stay; you do not need any additional period of validity on your passport beyond this.

British nationals do not need a visa to visit Malta.

It’s a good idea to take a photocopy of your passport showing your passport number and photograph. Bring this with you on holiday, but keep it in a different place from your passport, just in case it gets lost or stolen.

Smoking

Smoking is banned in any enclosed private or public premises, including bars and pubs, cafes and restaurants, public transport, cinemas, theatres and hospitals.

However, many establishments offer an outside seating option for smokers.

Smoking is also prohibited in the common areas in hotels. It is advisable to check with your hotel about its smoking policy before you book.

Flight time

A flight from London to Luqa takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes.